In Loving Memory of Mukhammad Aziz Umurzokov and Ella Cook

In Loving Memory of Mukhammad Aziz Umurzokov and Ella Cook

On December 13, 2025, the Brown University community in Providence, Rhode Island, was shattered by a senseless act of violence. What began as an ordinary Saturday afternoon during final exam week turned into tragedy when a gunman opened fire inside the Barus and Holley engineering building shortly before 4 p.m. Two bright young students—Mukhammad Aziz Umurzokov, a freshman neuroscience major, and Ella Cook, a sophomore—lost their lives, while nine others were wounded. This unthinkable event, occurring in a place dedicated to learning and discovery, has left families devastated, a campus in mourning, and a city grappling with profound grief.

The Brown community, the city of Providence, and countless others far beyond have come together in sorrow, holding vigils and offering support. As investigations continue, the focus remains on honoring the lives of these two remarkable individuals whose futures were stolen far too soon. 10 “The light in these dark times: Community gathers for a candlelight vigil at Lippitt Memorial Park in Providence to honor the victims of the Brown University shooting.” “LARGE” 12 “Mourners hold candles during a vigil following the tragic shooting at Brown University.” “LARGE”

Mukhammad Aziz Umurzokov: A Kind-Hearted Dreamer with a Bright Future

Mukhammad Aziz Umurzokov, an 18-year-old freshman from Midlothian, Virginia, had only just begun his journey at Brown University. A recent graduate of Midlothian High School (Class of 2025), he was pursuing neuroscience with dreams of becoming a neurosurgeon to help others. Described by his family as “incredibly kind, funny, and smart,” Mukhammad was the epitome of generosity—he “always lent a helping hand to anyone in need without hesitation” and was “the most kind-hearted person our family knew.”

Of Uzbek heritage, Mukhammad was at the engineering building that fateful day attending an economics review session. His sudden loss has devastated his family, who launched a GoFundMe that quickly raised significant support, reflecting the impact he had on those around him. He was remembered as a role model, full of potential and compassion, whose warmth touched everyone he met. 2 “Mukhammad Aziz Umurzokov, a talented and kind-hearted Brown University freshman with aspirations to become a neurosurgeon.” “LARGE” 0 “Mukhammad Aziz Umurzokov, remembered fondly by family and friends for his intelligence, humor, and generosity.” “LARGE”

Ella Cook: A Faithful Bright Light and Courageous Leader

Ella Cook, a sophomore from Birmingham, Alabama, was a devoted parishioner at the Cathedral Church of the Advent, where her pastor, Rev. Craig Smalley, described her as an “incredible, grounded, faithful bright light.” She grew up serving her church community faithfully, encouraging those around her with her deep faith and kindness. At Brown, Ella shone just as brightly—she was the Vice President of the Brown Republicans, unafraid to share her conservative beliefs on a predominantly liberal campus while supporting others to do the same.

Friends and family highlighted her brilliance, hard work, and gracious spirit. Ella’s life was one of service, light, and unwavering conviction, making her loss all the more heartbreaking for her tight-knit church family and the broader Brown community. 3 “Ella Cook, a sophomore at Brown University known for her faith, leadership, and radiant spirit.” “LARGE” 5 “Ella Cook, described as a compassionate and faithful bright light by her community.” “LARGE”

A Community Forever Changed

In the aftermath, Brown University canceled all remaining classes, exams, and projects for the fall semester, acknowledging the deep trauma inflicted on students, faculty, and staff. A candlelight vigil at Lippitt Memorial Park—originally planned for holiday celebrations—became a solemn gathering of remembrance, with hundreds holding candles and flowers in solidarity.

The wounded survivors face long recoveries, and the entire Providence area has rallied with support, from counseling services to community gatherings. This tragedy, occurring amid a national conversation on gun violence, serves as a stark reminder of the fragility of life and the need for healing.

Mukhammad and Ella represented the best of what higher education fosters: curiosity, kindness, leadership, and hope. Their legacies—of compassion, ambition, and faith—will endure in the hearts of those who knew them and in the stories shared by their communities.

Rest in peace, Mukhammad Aziz Umurzokov and Ella Cook. You were taken too soon, but your lights will continue to inspire.

Our deepest condolences to their families, friends, the Brown University community, and all affected by this profound loss. 6 “The Barus and Holley building at Brown University, site of the tragic shooting.” “LARGE” 8 “Law enforcement and community response in the days following the shooting at Brown University.” “LARGE”